Victor Harbor is a popular weekend destination from Adelaide, as there is plenty to do – or kick back and do nothing! Walk or take the horse-drawn tram across the causeway to Granite Island to see the colony of fairy penguins. Walk to the top of The Bluff – it’s a steep climb but the view is worth it. For the train lover, Steam Ranger trains run between Victor Harbor and Goolwa. This former whaling town also has an interesting Whale Centre focussing on the conservation of whales in Australian waters. The family would love a day at Greenhills Adventure Park just out of town. The Fleurieu Peninsula is itself well worth exploring. Deep Creek Conservation Park features rugged coastal scenery and bushwalks, while Cape Jervis has fine views towards Kangaroo Island. Around Willunga the almond blossom makes a fabulous display in early spring. And of course there are the wineries around McLaren Vale.

Kangaroo Island is a great place to spend the weekend – there’s something about climbing on board the ferry which makes you leave all your worries behind on the mainland. The ferry goes from Glenelg or Cape Jervis south of Adelaide and in no time you will see the rugged scenery of the island. There are several parks, the largest of which is Flinders Chase National Park with its eucalypt forests, the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral's Arch. New Zealand fur seals are found in this area. Seal Bay Conservation Park is home to a colony of Australian sea lions and Cape Gamtheaume Conservation Park preserves the rugged and exposed southern coastline of the island. Here's a great 4WD wildlife tour of Kangaroo Island.

Adelaide Hills offers a warm country welcome, inspiring scenery and an opportunity to witness the changing seasons. At Bridgewater is the historic water wheel, now part of Petaluma’s Bridgewater Mill Winery, where you can taste wines or dine in the delightful restaurant. Hahndorf retains a Germanic flavour, courtesy of the early Lutheran settlers. Its attractive tree lined main street houses many interesting craft shops. But be warned – there are numerous cake shops selling delicious Apfelstrudel and Black Forest gateaux! Do not miss The Cedars, the home of Sir Hans Heysen whose landscape paintings depict the local area. Guided tours are available Sunday to Friday. There are several gourmet festivals held in the area during the year, which are well worth visiting the area for and keen gardeners may like to check the Open Gardens scheme for local gardens.

The city of Adelaide makes a great weekend escape as you explore its wide streets, historic buildings and extensive parklands. There are regular free guided walks through the Botanic Gardens. The Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum are well worth a visit. Adelaide Gaol is open for inspection each Sunday. North Adelaide with its old buildings and gardens is also worth adding to your itinerary. See what weekend bargains there are in the city.